Protecting People from PCBs

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are synthetic chemicals that were manufactured for use in various industrial and commercial applications - including oil in electrical and hydraulic equipment, and plasticizers in paints, plastics and rubber products - because of their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point and electrical insulation properties.

The Region 9 PCB Program regulates the processing, distribution, use, cleanup, storage and disposal of PCBs under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada and Pacific Territories, and also provides support for TSCA compliance.

Concern over PCB toxicity and persistence in the environment led Congress to enact Section 6(e) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in 1976 which limits the manufacture, processing and distribution of PCBs. When released into the environment, PCBs do not easily break apart. Instead, they persist for many years, bioaccumulate and bioconcentrate in organisms. The EPA has classified PCBs as probable human carcinogens. Long-term effects of PCB exposure include harm to the nervous and reproductive system, immune system suppression, hormone disruption and skin and eye irritation.